Pennsylvania Farm Show kicks off Jan. 5

The annual event, held in the Farm Show Complex and Expo Center at North Cameron and Maclay streets through Jan. 12, has gained recognition as the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the country.

- Apple cider slushies and cherry pie from the Pennsylvania State Horticultural Association

Pennsylvanians are gearing up for the 97th annual farm show, which kicks off next Saturday, Jan. 5.

The annual event, held in the Farm Show Complex and Expo Center at North Cameron and Maclay streets through Jan. 12, has gained recognition as the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the country.

Visitors to the Farm Show will experience year's theme of "Made in Pa. It makes a difference," and enjoy seeing nearly 6,000 animals, 10,000 competitive exhibits and 300 commercial exhibits.

New to the show

Visitors of all ages can experience a plethora of new exhibits, demonstrations, and food for 2013, in addition to the all-time favorites such as the high school rodeo and the annual fashion show.

This year, Pennsylvania's wines will be highlighted, with the "Great Grape Stomp." The stomp will include two barefoot celebrity teams competing for top vintner honors. Audience members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite team and enter to win a winery tour. Additionally, a new tasting and display area featuring Pennsylvania wines will be held in the Main Hall.

The "Sport of Kings" — more commonly referred to as polo, a sport played on horseback, will be making an appearance for the first time at the 2013 Pennsylvania Farm Show. Visitors can witness a polo demonstration at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 10, in the Equine Arena.

Other new events include judging contests for old-fashioned fudge, cupcakes, and honey products including sauces, beverages and salad dressings.

The Junior Breeding Beef Supreme Champion Pageant will recognize young beef farmers and their prize-winning cattle, as well.

Farm Show facts

More than 400,000 people attend the week-long farm show each year, which is housed under 24-acres of roofing.

One of the biggest draws each year, especially for the youngsters, is seeing the nearly 6,000 sheep, pigs, horses, cows, goats, rabbits and poultry birds that are showcased and compete in competitions throughout the week.

Last year, $35,200 was raised during the 4-H and the Future Farmers of America Sale of Champions, which included the grand and reserve grand champion beef, sheep, pig and goat winners, according to the farm show website.

Another huge draw at the farm show is the delicious, mouth watering food that can be purchased. Each year, more than 140,000 milkshakes, 22,500 dozen potato doughnuts, 8,400 apple dumplings, 14,000 slices of PA Preferred pizza, 33,500 chicken nuggets, 11,000 Strawberry Surprise drinks and 750 gallons of honey ice cream are sold and consumed.

Visitors can also take a spin on the 61-year-old art deco merry-go-round that includes 30 horses and two chariot seats for a mere $2 ticket.

For those looking to add some educational fun into a Farm Show trip, there will be 28 learning stations on hand that are specifically designed to teach kids about agriculture.